Diamond Vs. Gold
Diamond is a very popular precious gemstone composed of carbon.[1] Gold is also a very popular mineral and its chemical composition is gold.[2]
Quick Facts on Differences of Diamond and Gold
For a quick recap of the differences diamond and gold:- While both diamond and gold can be opaque, diamond can be translucent or transparent.
- For chemical formulas, diamond is C while gold is Au.
- In terms of luster, diamond is adamantine while gold is metallic.
- Diamond streaks white while gold streaks golden, golden yellow or yellow.
- Diamond can be commonly colorless while gold can be commonly yellow.
- Diamond's specific gravity is lower than gold - diamond ranges from 2.9 to 3.5 and gold ranges from 15.5 to 19.3.
Quick Facts on Similarities of Diamond and Gold
The similarities of diamond and gold include:- Diamond's rarity is similar to gold.
Summary of Diamond
Diamond is a rare and valuable mineral that is highly sought after for its beauty and durability. It is composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, making it the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. The unique properties of diamond make it highly suitable for use in a variety of applications, from jewelry to industrial tools and equipment.Summary of Gold
Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au (from Latin: aurum) and atomic number 79, making it one of the higher atomic number elements that occur naturally. It is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is a precious metal that has been used for currency, jewelry, and decoration for thousands of years. It is also used in electronics, medicine, and as a conductor in space vehicles and satellites.Table Comparison of Diamond vs Gold
Diamond (src) | Gold (src) | |
---|---|---|
Transparency | transparent, translucent, opaque | opaque |
Chemical Formula | C | Au |
Chemical Composition | carbon | gold |
Specific Gravity | 2.9, 3.5, 3.515 | 15.5, 19.3 |
Streak | white | golden, golden yellow, yellow |
Hydrous | No | No |
Colors | common: colorless sometimes: blue, white, yellow less common: red, gray, pink, black, brown, green, orange, purple, violet |
common: yellow less common: brass, gold |
Fracture | conchoidal | hackly |